Television and radio presenter Lynda Bryans is leaving U105, it has emerged.

One of the best-known female presenters in Northern Ireland, Lynda was told her contract with the station was not being renewed.

She will be replaced by Carolyn Stewart, who currently fills the night-time slot on the station.

Carolyn also presents Saturday Night Fever from 6pm to 10pm.

Lynda joined the U105 line-up in November 2005 and hosted the 12 noon to 3pm slot, U105 Lunch.

A spokesman for Lynda’s company Take I Take II, which she set up with presenter husband Mike Nesbitt, said: “Lynda has been informed that her contract with U105 is not being renewed.

“There were no negotiations.”

The popular presenter began her broadcasting career at the BBC in Northern Ireland and worked on a number of shows including Inside Ulster, Here And Now, Animal Hospital and Holiday. As well as working with her husband on UTV Live, the couple also presented Sunday Morning for Anglia Television and UTV’s home and garden series Home Sweet Home.

It is understood Lynda will continue with her television career.

The spokesman for her company said: “Lynda is awaiting firm proposals for TV work next year.”

U105’s station manager Peter McVerry said Lynda’s departure was part of a review of programming and that the time was right to introduce a different style of lunchtime show to the schedule line-up.

“The new show will be more music focused so Lynda Bryans is handing over to Carolyn Stewart for U105 Lunch from October 27.

“I would like to take this opportunity to thank Lynda for the key role she has played in contributing to U105’s success since its inception three years ago, and wish Caroyln the best of luck with the new show later this month.”